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The 12 most romantic cities in Europe

Europe is commonly considered to be home to some of the world’s most romantic cities – from Paris to Prague, there’s something for every hopeless romantic. So where are the most romantic cities in Europe? Here’s our top 12 picks for 2014…

1. Amsterdam

No city in Europe quite compares to the romance exuding from the Dutch capital. Amsterdam has recently been the subject of a certain teen phenomenon, making it even more popular in 2014 (I’m looking at you, TFIOS). For the most romantic experience, be sure to rent a house boat and soak up the authenticity from the canals themselves.

2. Paris

No list like this would be complete without the city of love itself. Second only to Amsterdam (a more quaint, charming, personal city of romance), Paris is still one of the unbeatable cities to visit with your significant other. Be sure to pop a bottle o’ champagne under the Eiffel tower and indulge in some French cheese – bliss!

3. Prague

Prague has quickly become one of Europe’s most discovered cities – hustling and bustling with tourists from around the globe. But it still comes in as one of our top three cities of romance for it’s inevitable charm. The architecture alone will have you feeling loved up. Visit in winter for a less-crowded experience and enjoy the muddled wine and Christmas charm.

4. Budapest

Budapest remains to be one of Europe’s most underrated cities, but did you know it is also one of the most romantic? Head to Budapest before the crowds impact any further – it is swiftly becoming a new European favourite.

5. Vienna

The Austrian capital is bursting with charm at every turn. Think imperial architecture, horse carriages, nights at the opera and day trips to royal residences.

6. Venice

No list encapsulating romance in Europe would be complete without mention of the city of Venice. Although nowadays overrun by mass tourism, the city is still a favourite for loved up couples – and it’s not hard to see why.

7. Ljubljana

The Slovenian capital doesn’t get nearly as much credit as it deserves. Often overlooked in favour of nearby Bled (which is indeed stunning), Ljubljana has an out-of-this-world charm that makes it one of the most underrated cities in all of Europe.

8. Florence

Florence (or Firenze) is one of Italy’s most loved cities. With the tuscan sun, melting gelato and your loved one by your side – you can ‘t go wrong. The only drama you’ll have in Florence is trying not to cheat on your partner and fall in love with the city itself. Or the food… oh the food!

9. Zurich

Often mistaken for being the Swiss capital (a title which instead goes to Bern), Zurich is perhaps the most loved city in all of Switzerland. Of course, it depends who you ask. But you’d be kidding yourself not to reference Zurich as the most romantic Swiss city!

10. Copenhagen

Cozying up by the outdoor fire and enjoy a muddled wine or rich hot chocolate sound like heaven to you? Head to Copenhagen, one of Northern Europe’s most romantic cities.

11. Barcelona

Spain’s most popular tourist destination, Barcelona, has drawn crowds by the thousands for its’ unique charm. Fantastic architecture, interesting history, unforgettable sunsets and out-of-this-world food…. how could you go wrong!?

12. Santorini

Last but not least, Santorini. Favoured by many as the crowning jewel of romance in Europe – we think we’ve saved the best ’til last! For the most enjoyable experience, head to Greece just outside of peak season for more favourable rates and less crowds.

Comments

Its really a good blog on. I appreciate your article. Discover the outside world and collect information through our site. This blog is really helpful to give a light in this issue. So thanks for sharing all that important information.

I have visited 10 out of these 12 cities, and agree with some but definitely not all. I’ve created my own list of the 15 most romantic places in all of Europe. Check it out and I would love to hear what you think 🙂

Great post! I have been in many of them but can’t wait to visit Santorini! 🙂 If you love travelling you may enjoy the travels section of my blog: http://www.dalalba.com/category/travels/
It would be great to get your feedback! 🙂

I love love love your list (and have made it to 9 of the 12, though never with a significant other which… Uhm, yes. I must get on that!). I have never been to Ljubljana and would love to visit–looks magical 🙂 And loved seeing Amsterdam featured so prominently in the Fault in our Stars… Ahhh that book… the tears. SNIFF. My bf is Dutch and we’ve plans to go. Thanks for the reminder that I need to get a move on this!

I did not find Florence romantic at all. Rome was much more romantic. Venice is definitely romantic and mysterious, full of charm. My dream list has Santorini on it and I have heard Budapest is amazing. However romantic, I travel alone! SO it just has to be amazing.

I’m in love with that list itself 🙂 I totally agree with you, especially when it comes to Florence (I’ve been there this summer – generally tuscany is amazig place for people in love :)), Prague, Venice and… Santorini (that is my target for next year :)).

PS. Thank you for that post – I forwarded it to my boyfriend (just to be sure he will pick good place to make me “suprise vacation” sameday :))

I’ve been to all but Santorini and Ljubljana, to some of them many times. My choice would be Venice. A little bit of a cliche , but till, it’s unique and really romantique. I don’t know about Paris…oh well…

Such a great list! I’ve only visited Paris and Barcelona on this list, but am especially keen to reach some of those eastern european cities you have mentioned. Europe in general just oozes romance, doesn’t it!

I think Amsterdam is one of the most romantic cities in my eyes too. I can understand why a lot of people may question that, but to me it holds some special memories from when I first set out on my adventures around Europe, plus it’s so quaint!

My girlfriend and I have been to 9 out of the 12 on your list! Venice was particularly romantic as was Prague and Ljubljana. I didn’t find Barcelona particular romantic, however we both loved it and went there on 3 separate occasions over a 3 month period 🙂

I was so happy to see Amsterdam is number one and (more expected) Paris a close second. There is something so inherently romantic about those canals and the cobble stone streets and small, intimate cafes. Love the rest of your picks too. I think Florence is a great one.